One dead in twin explosions outside Brazil’s Supreme Court
Brazilian officials reported two powerful explosions outside the Supreme Court in Brasília, Brazil’s capital, on Wednesday. Authorities confirmed that one person was killed in the blasts. The cause and motive behind the explosions remain unknown.
The Brazilian Supreme Court released a statement noting that the “two very strong explosions” occurred around 7:30 p.m. local time on Wednesday outside its building. According to the statement, none of the judges or court staff were harmed in the incident.
According to an Associated Press report on Thursday, November 14, the explosions took place in a sensitive government area known as “Three Powers Plaza,” which houses the executive, judicial, and legislative branches.
The Brazilian presidential palace is also located near the Supreme Court. A spokesperson for the presidency stated that Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva was not present at the palace during the explosions.
No individual or group has claimed responsibility for the blasts. However, in recent years, the Brazilian Supreme Court has faced threats from far-right groups and supporters of former President Jair Bolsonaro, following the court’s actions to curb misinformation on social media platforms like X, Facebook, and WhatsApp.
The recent attacks underscore the tensions within Brazil, particularly surrounding the Supreme Court’s role in managing misinformation and election security.
The court has taken steps in recent years to protect democratic processes, a stance that has put it at odds with Bolsonaro and his supporters, who view such measures as infringements on freedom of speech.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges Brazil faces in balancing security and freedom of expression, with the Supreme Court remaining a focal point of controversy and political polarization in the nation.
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